India's largest carrier, IndiGo, cancelled 67 flights across multiple airports on Thursday, attributing the move to anticipated bad weather and operational constraints. This disruption coincides with the peak New Year travel period sweeping the nation.
DGCA's Fog Window and IndiGo's Reduced Schedule
The cancellations occur within the official fog period designated by the aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which spans from December 10 to February 10. IndiGo is currently under enhanced DGCA scrutiny following massive disruptions earlier this month, which included the cancellation of 1,600 flights in a single day due to new pilot rest norms.
As per government directives, the airline is now operating a curtailed schedule. Originally approved to operate 15,014 domestic flights per week (approximately 2,144 daily) for the winter season, IndiGo's capacity has been slashed by 10%. This reduction translates to 214 fewer flights per day, capping its current daily domestic operations at a maximum of 1,930 flights.
How to Check Your Flight Status During the Holiday Rush
With the festive season causing congestion, passengers are strongly advised to verify their flight details before heading to the airport. Here are the official channels for major Indian airlines:
For all passengers at Delhi's IGI Airport: Real-time flight information is available on the airport's official website. Visit the Live Flight Information page, enter your flight number and date to get updates on status, terminal, gate, and timings.
Airline-Specific Trackers
IndiGo: Use the IndiGo mobile app or visit their Flight Tracker webpage. Enter your PNR and travel date to receive live updates on delays, gate numbers, and terminals.
Air India & Air India Express: Passengers can check status via the airlines' official websites, their mobile apps (Air India app or Tata Neu), or through third-party services like Flightradar24 and FlightAware. Customer support numbers are also available for assistance.
SpiceJet: Updates can be accessed through the SpiceJet website, their mobile application, or via their official WhatsApp number. SMS and email alerts are sent to passengers who booked directly.
Key Takeaways for Travelers
The recent cancellations underscore the operational challenges airlines face during India's winter, compounded by regulatory changes and weather. The DGCA's active monitoring reflects the severity of recent disruptions. For a smooth travel experience, passengers should proactively use official airline channels for the most accurate flight information and build in extra time for potential delays during this busy period.
